GREECE
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Europe’s first great civilization was the Minoan culture in Crete.
Long before Athens or Rome was founded, the Minoans dominated the Mediterranean Sea. They are known for their art, writing system, and palaces.
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum is the world's best place for Minoan culture.
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The objects are rich in detail, with vibrant colors and a wide array of motifs.
Probably influenced by Egyptian artisans, these masterpieces highlight Minoans’ everyday life, their fashion, and their favorite sport: bull-leaping.
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Knossos was the zenith of Minoan culture for nearly two millenniums.
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With over 1300 chambers and countless stairs, it’s no surprise to see why people believed that Knossos was the labyrinth where the Minotaur dwelled.
It was not only a royal residence but also an administrative, religious, and commercial center.
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Opened in 2022, Chania Archeological Museum is Crete’s newest attraction
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Within four exhibition halls, 3600 artifacts are presented. They shed light on the private and public lives of people in West Crete throughout history.
Highlights include connecting vases, a reconstructed Minoan house, and a piece of jewelry engraved with Minotaur depiction.
For the Minoans, the bull symbolized strength and fertility.
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